What is verification?

A student’s application for federal financial aid may be selected for a process called Verification. Verification is a process used to verify certain information on the FAFSA to ensure its accuracy.

Why is your file being verified?

While there are several reasons why a student may be selected for verification some leading causes are:

The submitted FAFSA application has incomplete data.

The data on the FAFSA application appears to contradict itself.

The FAFSA application has estimated information on it.

Random selection

What documents are needed after selection?

The verification process requires that students submit documentation such as tax return transcript and verification worksheets that are compared to information from the student’s application. Other documentation may also be requested.

How will I know I have been selected?

Notification is sent to the student via mail/email. Students can also check their BannerWeb account for outstanding requirements. The student’s account will list the document requirements and the status.

What happens if there are discrepancies in the application?

After all required documents are submitted, the Financial Aid Office will compare them to your application. If errors are found, corrections will be made.

How long does data correction take?

You should allow 10 business days for the verification review process and an additional 5 business days if corrections have to be made and transmitted. Additional time may be necessary during peak periods.

Verification must be completed in advance of disbursing any money from any financial aid program so it is vital to send, complete, and correct errors as quickly as possible.

Deadlines

How long do I have to complete verification?

Students are expected to apply for aid and complete the verification process before the term has ended. Otherwise, the student is in jeopardy of not receiving any Federal aid for their period of enrollment.

All required documents should be submitted to the Financial Aid Office as soon as possible. Any delay in submitting all required documents will cause a delay in awarding of financial aid resulting in the student being responsible for paying all or part of their bill until awarding takes place.